Play Directing: Analysis, Communication, and Style

by Francis Hodge, Michael McLain

Play Directing describes the various roles a director plays, from "calling the plays" to orchestrating and blending a symphony of actors and elements. The author emphasizes that the role of the director is not as a dictator, but as a leader of multiple craftsmen who look to the director for ideas that will give impetus to their fullest, most creative expressions. The text emphasizes that directing is not a finite and specific "system" of production, but rather is a venue for providing an intensive look at the structure of plays, of acting and actor-ownership, and of all the other crafts that together make a produced play.

Genres: Theatre, Nonfiction, Reference

400 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1971

Reviews

[Andie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really really liked this book. It was straightforward and helpful, and it made clear to me some things that seem obvious, but which should really be closely examined. The reason I've knocked a star off of the rating is because I just don't feel the kind of fiery passion in my soul that I think you need for a 5 star book.

It was good, very helpful, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in theatre. Even though this book is specifically about directing plays, I think it's a helpful resource for anyone when it comes to understanding directing (and what directors are looking for).

[kayla michelle pisano ✮ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every aspiring director MUST not only read but analyze and take notes from this book. This is going to be my Bible. This book focuses mostly on plays/drama also includes exercises and examples/activities!

[Willow James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very thorough and dense. A little outdated but very helpful and insightful.

[Fateme Beygi · Rating 3 out of 5]

این کتاب می‌تونه یه دید تقریباً جامع و کامل درباره‌ی آن‌چه که کارگردانی تئاتر هست، بهتون بده. یه منبع درست و حسابی برای آماتورها که پیزی رو از قلم ننداخته و مثل یه کلاس درسه.

[Ineta Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very detailed, thorough and detailed information for an emerging directors.

[Juliette]

Classic textbook to hang on to after college-great to have on hand for directing actors.

[Jeremy]

Great read for all directs... a must

[Theadra Chapman · Rating 3 out of 5]

this class kicked everyone's ass. taking the play and actually following the Hodge was so involved. But really interesting. I kept the book....10 years since I graduate. It must say something.

[Lady Brainsample · Rating 3 out of 5]

Skimmed/read it. Had some very helpful information and I'll probably peruse it again if/when I direct.

[Annamarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vague at sometimes, but very helpful in the end.

[Barbara Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book addresses one of the most important aspects of the role of the director--communication. Communication with the various design agents, actors and audience.

[Libby · Rating 3 out of 5]

nice pictures and diagrams